A study, unique in its focus on the impact of lifestyle changes on type 2 diabetes risk, was conducted by the University of Eastern Finland. It demonstrated for the first time that adhering to a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical exercise can mitigate the risk of type 2 diabetes, even among individuals who possess a high genetic predisposition for the disease. This finding underscores that lifestyle modifications are beneficial universally, irrespective of one’s genetic backdrop.
Type 2 diabetes presents a formidable challenge globally. Data from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) reveals that one in eleven adults across the globe is diagnosed with diabetes, with type 2 diabetes constituting approximately 90% of these cases. Extensive research has identified over 500 genetic markers that increase susceptibility to type 2 diabetes. However, lifestyle choices also play a crucial role in the likelihood of developing this condition. Key lifestyle risk factors include being overweight, a diet low in fibre, high consumption of saturated fats, and insufficient physical activity. While previous research has established that lifestyle alterations can effectively stave off type 2 diabetes, it was previously unclear if such preventive measures could also benefit those with a high genetic risk.
The study in question, known as the T2D-GENE Trial, spanned three years and included nearly 1,000 men aged between 50 and 75 from eastern Finland. These participants were selected based on their elevated fasting glucose levels at the start of the study. More than 600 of these men were placed in the lifestyle intervention group, which received comprehensive guidance on adopting healthier lifestyles through group meetings and support via a specially designed web portal. Participants were selected from the lowest and highest tertiles of genetic risk—representing either a high or low genetic likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes. Notably, the genetic risk profiles of participants were not disclosed to them or the researchers during the study. Regardless of their genetic risk category, all participants in the intervention group received identical lifestyle advice.
The men in the lifestyle intervention group exhibited notable improvements in their diets; they increased their fibre intake, enhanced the quality of fats consumed, and boosted their consumption of vegetables, fruits, and berries. Although the study was not primarily focused on weight loss, a reduction in body weight was observed. The participants, who were already quite active at the outset, successfully maintained their vigorous exercise routines. These lifestyle changes contributed to a significant reduction in the deterioration of glucose metabolism. Consequently, the incidence of type 2 diabetes was substantially lower in the lifestyle intervention group compared to the control group. The positive impact of the lifestyle changes was significant across participants, regardless of their genetic risk level.
Dr Maria Lankinen, a University Lecturer and Docent at the University of Eastern Finland and the study’s lead author, emphasised that these findings should motivate everyone to embrace lifestyle modifications that enhance health. Additionally, she highlighted the efficacy of providing lifestyle guidance through group sessions and digital platforms, noting that such approaches can lead to significant healthcare savings. This study not only reaffirms the importance of healthy living habits in preventing type 2 diabetes but also illustrates that genetic predisposition does not negate the potential benefits of proactive lifestyle changes.
More information: Maria Anneli Lankinen et al, Effects of Genetic Risk on Incident Type 2 Diabetes and Glycemia: The T2D-GENE Lifestyle Intervention Trial, The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism. DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgae422
Journal information: The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism Provided by University of Eastern Finland
